Family Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

A Day of Artistic Wonders on Naoshima

Today marked the beginning of our family art adventure on Naoshima Island, and what a start it was! Leaving behind the familiar streets of Markham, and after our long journey from Toronto to Osaka, and then the train and ferry to this art-filled island, I was eager to immerse myself and my family in the unique cultural experiences Naoshima had to offer. The island greeted us with open arms and a vibrant art scene that promised to be both inspiring and thought-provoking.

The weather in May is pleasant , with temperatures hovering around 18°C, making it perfect for exploring the island's outdoor installations and museums. After dropping our bags at My Lodge Naoshima, we headed straight for our first stop: the Benesse House Museum.


Discover affordable comfort at My Lodge Naoshima, an ideal base for exploring the art-laden island while enjoying local cuisine and free parking.


Discover the enchanting Benesse House Museum on Naoshima Island, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty in a harmonious setting.

The Benesse House Museum is more than just a museum; it's an experience. The seamless integration of art, architecture, and nature is simply breathtaking. As we wandered through the galleries, we encountered thought-provoking installations and captivating exhibitions. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the 'Three Chattering Men' , while Umar and I were drawn to the serene sculptures that dotted the landscape. The museum's unique design, courtesy of Tadao Ando, allowed us to appreciate the artwork in harmony with the surrounding natural beauty.

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.

After a morning filled with artistic exploration, our stomachs began to rumble. We decided to grab a quick bite at APRON CAFE, a charming little spot known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I opted for the seasonal set lunch, which featured a delicious fried local Spanish mackerel with a Spanish-style omelette and a medley of fresh vegetables. Umar chose a spicy curry dish, and Aisha happily munched on a chocolate scone. The food was not only delicious but also surprisingly healthy, providing us with the energy we needed for the rest of the day's adventures.


Experience culinary delights amidst the artistic beauty of Naoshima at APRON CAFE - where every meal tells a story.

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to the Chichu Art Museum. This museum is an architectural marvel, designed by Tadao Ando to be mostly underground to minimize its impact on the natural landscape. As we descended into the depths of the museum, we were greeted by a series of stunning installations that played with light and space. Monet's 'Water Lilies' glowed under the ambient light, while James Turrell's pieces challenged our perception of reality. Aisha was mesmerized by the Walter De Maria installation, a vast, minimalist space that invited contemplation.


Explore the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island, where modern art meets nature in a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

The Chichu Art Museum truly embodies the concept of rethinking the relationship between nature and people. The way the sunlight filters through the underground spaces, illuminating the artwork, is nothing short of magical. It's an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Our final museum of the day was the Lee Ufan Museum, a serene space dedicated to the works of the Korean artist Lee Ufan. The museum, also designed by Tadao Ando, features a collection of Lee Ufan's paintings and sculptures from the 1970s to the present. While the museum itself is relatively small, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, inviting visitors to contemplate the relationship between art and nature.


Explore the serene Lee Ufan Museum in Naoshima, where modern art meets nature in a harmonious blend of minimalism and tranquility.

After a full day of museum hopping, we were ready for a hearty dinner. We chose New Olympia, a local sushi restaurant known for its fresh, homemade meals. The cozy atmosphere of the old shop added to the charm of the dining experience. The server, who was proficient in English, guided us through the menu, recommending various seasonal dishes such as squid, sashimi with local salmon, and seared mackerel. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were exquisite. It was the perfect way to end our first day on Naoshima.


Experience authentic sushi in Naoshima at New Olympia – where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese artistry.

As we walked back to our lodge under the starlit sky, we reflected on the incredible day we had experienced. Naoshima Island had exceeded all our expectations, offering a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore the Art House Project in Honmura, visit the Ando Museum, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of Yayoi Kusama's iconic Yellow Pumpkin. I’m particularly excited about the Art House Project: Minamidera, a collaboration between Tadao Ando and James Turrell.

Before drifting off to sleep, I took some time to organize my thoughts and jot down some notes about the day's adventures. I also made a mental note to buy an extra memory card for my camera , as I'm sure I'll be taking plenty more photos in the days to come. And perhaps I should look into renting bikes for the family. I read that Naoshima has large bike-friendly roads, and that could be a fun way to get around.

Naoshima has certainly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. With the Setouchi Triennale just around the corner , I know that our family art adventure is only just beginning. I feel so grateful to be able to share this experience with my family , creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow's Itinerary: Art House Project and Local Charm

Tomorrow, we're diving deeper into Naoshima's artistic soul with the Art House Project. I'm eager to see how artists have transformed traditional homes into unique art spaces. Aisha is particularly excited about the Art House Project: Haisha, which was once a dentist's office. We'll also be exploring the charming village of Honmura, soaking in the local atmosphere, and trying out some more of the island's culinary delights. We plan to start our day with breakfast at Café Ippo, followed by lunch at Raumen Tsumu, and dinner at Aisunao. And if we have time, we might even stop by Bar SARU for a nightcap.

I am also excited about the Naoshima New Museum of Art that is scheduled to open at the end of the month. Designed by Tadao Ando, it will be his tenth architectural work on the island. The opening exhibits will include works by artists such as Takashi Murakami and Cai Guo-Qiang. The museum will focus on Asian contemporary art.

Essential Tips for Fellow Art Enthusiasts

For those planning a trip to Naoshima, here are a few tips based on my first-day experience:

• Book accommodations and museum tickets well in advance.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning art and scenery.
• Check the ferry schedule to plan your arrival and departure.
• Consider renting a bike to explore the island at your own pace.

Naoshima is a truly special place, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a unique and inspiring travel experience.